How do you give and get feedback from commercial real estate associations?

1 Know your purpose

Before you give or ask for feedback, be clear about why you are doing it and what you hope to achieve. Is it to improve your skills, knowledge, or relationships? Is it to solve a problem, celebrate a success, or explore an opportunity? Is it to share your perspective, learn from others, or collaborate on a project? Knowing your purpose will help you frame your feedback in a positive and relevant way, and also help you select the most appropriate channel, timing, and tone for your communication.

2 Be specific and actionable

Feedback should be based on observable facts, not vague opinions or assumptions. Whether you are giving or receiving feedback, focus on specific behaviors, actions, or outcomes that can be measured, verified, or demonstrated. Avoid generalizations, judgments, or personal attacks that can undermine trust and credibility. Instead, provide concrete examples, data, or evidence to support your feedback. Also, make sure your feedback is actionable, meaning that it offers clear and realistic suggestions for improvement, recognition, or next steps.

3 Seek balance and diversity

Feedback should not be a one-way street, nor should it come from only one source. To get a comprehensive and balanced view of your performance, strengths, and areas for development, you need to seek feedback from different perspectives and stakeholders. This includes your peers, mentors, clients, and industry associations, as well as yourself. Self-assessment is a valuable tool to reflect on your goals, achievements, and challenges, and to identify your own feedback needs and preferences. Likewise, you should also offer feedback to others who can benefit from your insights, experience, or expertise.

4 Listen and respond

Feedback is not only about what you say or hear, but also about how you listen and respond. When giving feedback, be respectful, honest, and supportive. Use open-ended questions, active listening, and positive language to encourage dialogue and understanding. When receiving feedback, be receptive, curious, and appreciative. Avoid defensiveness, excuses, or arguments that can shut down the conversation or damage the relationship. Instead, ask for clarification, examples, or suggestions to help you process and apply the feedback.

5 Follow up and follow through

Feedback is not a one-time event, but an ongoing process that requires follow up and follow through. After giving or receiving feedback, make sure you document the main points, actions, and outcomes of the conversation. Review the feedback regularly and track your progress and results. Communicate with your feedback partners and update them on your achievements, challenges, or changes. Seek or offer additional feedback as needed and celebrate your successes together.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?